Graduating from college may be a goal or aspiration for some. But for my family and me, it’s a requirement. I come from generations of brilliant, talented, intelligent, and determined people. I, LayLa Nicole Sherman, would like to be added. I know that with my hard work, perseverance, determination, and focused mindset, I can become another legacy and role model for the younger generations in my family. Although it’s been a bumpy road, I’m very blessed and lucky to say I am, I will, and I am determined to go to college and graduate.  Growing up was challenging at times. I’m from the city of Detroit, MI. I grew up on the West side in a two-parent middle-class home. My parents worked day and night to ensure I had everything I needed but mainly wanted. My father was an auto parts salesman who lived paycheck k to paycheck, all while hustling to fix cars and cut yards on the side to make ends meet. My mother is a teacher in the inner city school system, not making what she deserves even with a master's degree. Sometimes, we didn’t have any power, water, or heat. My father hustled through most of my childhood to make his portion of the meat for our family. My mother had to hold the household down when my father had no money or struggled to keep a job. I didn’t understand it at first, but now, as a semi-adult, I know the importance of saving, stacking, and being financially savvy. But my journey didn’t stop as a child.    While in high school, I lost my father unexpectedly at 16. My father was everything to me. I was never ready to say goodbye and let him go. It was a complete shock to me and my whole family. I was 16; I didn't know where to go or what to do. My mother was trying everything in her power to keep me and herself together, but it just wasn't working. I had gotten so down that I didn't want to attend college. But, with prayer and persistence, I could attend Tennessee State University. Choosing to attend Tennessee State University and major in business was very important. The company became my comfort zone when things were rough, and I had nowhere to turn. I dreamed of working in corporate America, making seven figures, and living a fantastic life. Only to realize that I was in high school and had to keep working and striving for better. In high school, the Business field was my only interest. It was the only thing that kept my attention while in class. I’ve also been very business-oriented and savvy, but I never thought I could make a career out of it. Business is also how to ensure that my family and I will never have to endure what I endured as a child. Serving the community that poured so much into me as a child means everything. I’d be nowhere if it weren’t for my city and home that made me who I am today. When the opportunity comes, I’d like to go back to my community and serve pre-teens/teens dealing with grief in their personal lives. I want to provide free counseling services and therapy sessions for them whenever they need them during the school year and the summer. I understand how it feels to be alone and sad and feeling hopeless. I want to ensure that young African American women never have to guess their worth second or put their dreams on hold simply because of their emotions.

Graduating from college may be a goal or aspiration for some. But for my family and me, it’s a requirement. I come from generations of brilliant, talented, intelligent, and determined people. I, LayLa Nicole Sherman, would like to be added. I know that with my hard work, perseverance, determination, and focused mindset, I can become another legacy and role model for the younger generations in my family. Although it’s been a bumpy road, I’m very blessed and lucky to say I am, I will, and I am determined to go to college and graduate.  Growing up was challenging at times. I’m from the city of Detroit, MI. I grew up on the West side in a two-parent middle-class home. My parents worked day and night to ensure I had everything I needed but mainly wanted. My father was an auto parts salesman who lived paycheck k to paycheck, all while hustling to fix cars and cut yards on the side to make ends meet. My mother is a teacher in the inner city school system, not making what she deserves even with a master's degree. Sometimes, we didn’t have any power, water, or heat. My father hustled through most of my childhood to make his portion of the meat for our family. My mother had to hold the household down when my father had no money or struggled to keep a job. I didn’t understand it at first, but now, as a semi-adult, I know the importance of saving, stacking, and being financially savvy. But my journey didn’t stop as a child.    While in high school, I lost my father unexpectedly at 16. My father was everything to me. I was never ready to say goodbye and let him go. It was a complete shock to me and my whole family. I was 16; I didn't know where to go or what to do. My mother was trying everything in her power to keep me and herself together, but it just wasn't working. I had gotten so down that I didn't want to attend college. But, with prayer and persistence, I could attend Tennessee State University. Choosing to attend Tennessee State University and major in business was very important. The company became my comfort zone when things were rough, and I had nowhere to turn. I dreamed of working in corporate America, making seven figures, and living a fantastic life. Only to realize that I was in high school and had to keep working and striving for better. In high school, the Business field was my only interest. It was the only thing that kept my attention while in class. I’ve also been very business-oriented and savvy, but I never thought I could make a career out of it. Business is also how to ensure that my family and I will never have to endure what I endured as a child. Serving the community that poured so much into me as a child means everything. I’d be nowhere if it weren’t for my city and home that made me who I am today. When the opportunity comes, I’d like to go back to my community and serve pre-teens/teens dealing with grief in their personal lives. I want to provide free counseling services and therapy sessions for them whenever they need them during the school year and the summer. I understand how it feels to be alone and sad and feeling hopeless. I want to ensure that young African American women never have to guess their worth second or put their dreams on hold simply because of their emotions.

February 18th, 2021, was the worst day of my life. Within a split second, reality kicked in, my life changed, and for the first time, I felt numb. I had just lost my father at 16 years old. What was I supposed to do? Death has always been a common thing I was used to, just not this close to home. For me, death is very traumatizing. I experienced my first loss while I was in elementary school. From there on out, it got worse and worse, by far, was the worst of them all. At a very young age, I understood the importance of a black man raising his child full time. In today's society, black men are labeled as the “dead beat dads” and or “absent fathers”. I appreciate my dad being present in my life, especially my childhood, as much as he could. As with any parent and child bond, there are little bumps in the road. But nothing to the point of ending all being, right? My dad had a normal relationship, bumped heads a little but we loved each other dearly. We shared a lot of fun times, we loved watching football, we loved going out to eat, we loved taking rides downtown, and we just loved being together. Whenever I needed him, he was there. It didn't matter what time of night or day. I miss him and his presence. I’ve never experienced such a deep loss, it’s something that is and was very unexplainable for me. Poetry and Photography have helped me escape the loss of my father. I was alone in my room one night recently, grappling with my thoughts. I got my start with Poetry in the 9th grade. It was an assignment for my speech class to write a 2-3 minute poem. I was scared out of my mind. After further consideration, I decided to write about heartbreak. I was the last person in my class to present, I was the only one in class with a standing ovation. That was the light bulb in my head that poetry was the way to go for me. I’ve been writing poetry ever since, and I’ve used to express my feelings whenever and wherever I go. Writing makes me feel safe, it makes me feel like I can be ME. I also see happiness through my camera lens. I started “OSArtistry” in memory of my father, to capture life through my lens. As of today, I have a website, logo, and steady business clientele. These two hobbies have helped me stay focused, remain positive, and appreciate life more. Overall, my fathers’ death has been very difficult for my family and me. But, I am very blessed that I’ve taken my pain and turned it into strength and determination. My father and I always discussed college and my future. I am determined to attend college, perform well, and walk across the stage for him. I’ve taken his death and turned it into a positive thing for my family and me. I never would have imagined being a business owner at the age of 17, I never would have imagined being a published writer at the age of 17 either. But I did it, I overcame the unthinkable for most. I promise to make my father proud while he watches.

You hurt me in ways I could never imagine I just can’t seem to let go As days go on I miss you more and more But you always make me angry And that makes me want to even the score I love when you lift me up I hate when you bring me down You expect me to love you Even when your acting stupid Why do you continue with the double standard Would you rather me walk away ? Or stay You make me the happiest person in the world But do I do the same for you ? Do you really care ? DO YOU LOVE ME LIKE YOU SAY ! WOULD YOU PUT YOUR LIFE ON THE LINE FOR ME !? No, you would never because you don’t care Your smile brings me joy You hit me in the face for what? IS BEATING ME YOUR SIGN OF LOVE? if it fits wear the glove What do you want from me Love and affection? Try giving that to me for a chance I could never imagine leaving you My world would be dark Even though I caught you at the park I know you love me You’ve said it a million times But your actions show different I’ve been left with bruises For the world to see But why me ? WHY! WHAT DID I DO IVE LOVED YOU THROUGH THICK AND THIN AND I STILL DO You hang on to people you care about It’s not easy to let go As much as I want to hurt you I could never see myself doing so This love is so toxic I knew it wasn’t right But I yearn for you in ways that are unexplainable I can never talk You never listen I would listen to your problems for hours But I can’t get 5 minutes? Back to the double standard You choose to push me away But at the same time want me to stay When we first met things were different You made me feel special Now I feel like your last resort I gave you a 110 percent You give me 50 What kind of ratio is that ?

Graduating from college may be a goal or aspiration for some. But for my family and me, it’s a requirement. I come from generations of brilliant, talented, intelligent, and determined people. I, LayLa Nicole Sherman would like to be added to that list. I’ve always looked forward to becoming a freshman in college, it has always been a dream. I know that with my hard work, perseverance, determination, and focused mindset I can become another legacy and role model for the younger generations in my family. Although it’s been a bumpy road, I’m very blessed and lucky to say I am, I will, and I am determined to go to college and graduate. I plan to attend Tennessee State University, majoring in Accounting and minoring in Journalism. I aspire to become a CPA after graduate school, in hopes of opening my Accounting and Tax Service business. While attending TSU, I’m hoping to start interning at different financial institutions and also participating in work-study programs. I’m also a poet and writer myself, so minoring in Journalism would just be something fun for me to do and sharpen my skills while attending college. I am certain with a Bachelors’s and Master’s degree in my field I will be able to take on the world within my career and take flight on to new heights. After college is all said and done, I’d like to be working as a full-time CPA. I’m very optimistic about my future and what life has to come. I come from a single-parent household as of February 2021, so I’d like to do what I can to make sure my mother is comfortable for the rest of her life as long as I am here. As I climb the ladder of my career, I’d also like to sit down and start creating my Accounting and Tax Services business in whatever city I decide to reside in. I’m hoping within 2-3 years of me starting I will have a steady business and clientele. In conclusion, by 2023 I’d like to be a young black, beautiful, brilliant young working woman in America.

My friends make me happy. February 18th, 2021, was the worst day of my life. Within a split second, reality kicked in, my life changed, and for the first time, I felt numb. I had just lost my father at 16 years old. What was I supposed to do? Run to my friends. My friends are my safe haven, they are my peace, and they are genuine in all aspects. I never thought that people so young could be so supportive and understanding of me and my emotions. It has been really hard without my dad but my friends always find a way to support me and lift me up. Although they aren't dealing with the situation at hand they always reassure me how supportive they are and how much they care about me. I never have to ask my friends for help, or support. They just always spring into action when I need them and never think twice about it. I'll forever be grateful for them. My friends bring me joy, they make me smile. I exude a level of happiness around them that I never knew I could reach until I met them. Even though we'll be separating soon, I know they'll be there for me even miles away. I couldn't think of better people to spend my time, energy, and love with them. I know my fathered would have loved all of them dearly.

The song that inspires me the most is "Close to You" by Bebe and Cece Winans. This song is off of the "Still" album, which was released in 2009. This song talks about being close to that special loved one or partner no more how far you may be apart. After losing my father last year I always thought that I'd never have a connection with him anymore, until I listened to this song. This song taught me that no matter who, what, when, where, and how you can still reach that person regardless Within a physical and spiritual matter. Losing my father definitely hit me harder than anything before in life. I was stuck at 16 years old with the shock of my life not knowing how I was going to get out. Music then became a outlet for me to express myself, love, and be fun without any judgement. Without music I don't know where I would've ended up, music heals the soul. Being able to listen to music and relate to your favorite artists makes you feel like they really hear you and they care, and that's the most important thing. I agree that music has changed people forever. It has guided people through the most difficult times, and the most beautiful times. I'm so grateful for all of the music that has blessed my ears within this tough year of my father being gone. But Dad never forget this saying. "I just want to be close too you" <3.

moth·er- /ˈməT͟Hər/ noun- noun: mother; plural noun: mothers a woman in relation to her child or children. I never realized the strength that my mother held until last year. February 18th, 2021, was the worst day of my life. Within a split second, reality kicked in, my life changed, and for the first time, I felt numb. I had just lost my father at 16 years old. What was I supposed to do? Turn to my mother? Cry? Or deal with the emotions. My mother was the perfect example of how I will and should act moving forward when dealing with death. My mother has been so strong throughout this whole process and she has really shown me how a strong black woman should act and carry herself at all times. She has pushed me through this difficult time and always reminds me to stay positive. My mom gets up every day and tries extremely hard to keep fighting, keep a smile on her face, and remain positive. It inspires me to keep pushing myself every day and to keep trying. I appreciate my mother for everything she does. She works hard, she holds down the household and make sure everything is taken care of. She is playing the mom and dad role in the household and I think that is one of the hardest things she can do, but she keeps pushing.

Graduating from college may be a goal or aspiration for some. But for my family and me, it’s a requirement. I come from generations of brilliant, talented, intelligent, and determined people. I, LayLa Nicole Sherman would like to be added to that list. I’ve always looked forward to becoming a freshman in college, it has always been a dream. I know that with my hard work, perseverance, determination, and focused mindset I can become another legacy and role model for the younger generations in my family. Although it’s been a bumpy road, I’m very blessed and lucky to say I am, I will, and I am determined to go to college and graduate. I plan to attend Tennessee State University, majoring in Accounting and minoring in Journalism. I aspire to become a CPA after graduate school, in hopes of opening my Accounting and Tax Service business. While attending TSU, I’m hoping to start interning at different financial institutions and also participating in work-study programs. I’m also a poet and writer myself, so minoring in Journalism would just be something fun for me to do and sharpen my skills while attending college. I am certain with a Bachelors’s and Master’s degree in my field I will be able to take on the world within my career and take flight on to new heights. After college is all said and done, I’d like to be working as a full-time CPA. I’m very optimistic about my future and what life has to come. I come from a single-parent household as of February 2021, so I’d like to do what I can to make sure my mother is comfortable for the rest of her life as long as I am here. As I climb the ladder of my career, I’d also like to sit down and start creating my Accounting and Tax Services business in whatever city I decide to reside in. I’m hoping within 2-3 years of me starting I will have a steady business and clientele. In conclusion, by 2023 I’d like to be a young black, beautiful, brilliant young working woman in America.

I actively listen to those around me by trying/attempting to hear their whole perspective. Listening to me is very important whether it's a friendship, relationship, or business relationship you have to listen. You can listen, but are you active? Do you hear everything that's being said? I never want the people I associate myself with to feel as though I don't listen to everything they say and that I don't take it to heart, because their feelings matter. I know how big I am on on being heard, respected, and understood so I would like to give that same energy back to the opposite person. Active listening is not a skill that all people possess. It takes a special person to be able to sit and and listen to you bad or good and really support you and guide you through the way. You can't solve problems or get through anything if you don't listen for the root of the problem. I think especially within young adults, we're so caught up in trying to talk and make a point. That we don't ever take the time to be quiet and hear the other person out. We'd definitely make more progress by listening than continuing to talk. I feel as though active listening is key in a relationship, I learned this from experience. If your partner is telling you something you have to be able to hear and understand them clearly so that you guys can put the issue behind you. Listening is key in certain situation, as I mature I'm learning that it's more than just hearing someone talk. It's listening from the heart and soul to hear all perspectives at the end of the day.

Joy to me means exuding levels of happiness that you've never reached in life. I believe joy comes in different ways, whether it's in activities, hobbies, food, or even a person. Every person should experience the joy of life and what it has to offer, nobody deserves to be sad. Joy can be shown in many ways, our feelings and emotions are probably one of my favorite things about the human body. We are free to express ourselves in any way we like. All people don't carry joy or even know how to find joy in their life which I think is sad. I think with a little happiness and joy in all of our lives we can achieve something greater. I seek joy out in my life by doing things I enjoy, self-care, spending time with my friends, and being with my family. For fun I like to write poetry, cook, do photography, and sing. All of these things for me bring the highest level joy and make it okay to be alone at times and just focus on me. My self-care activities include getting my nails, toes, and hair done. Getting all pretty and fancy makes me happy it brings joy to me, my life, and my day. I believe having joy in your life can and will make the process easier for you in the end when you are having a bad day. You can go back to that place or zone where you were feeling happy and joyous and try to channel that into your current state, to help you get over whatever it is.

To relax and take care of my mental health I write poetry and engage in photography. Photography brings me joy, it allows me to be me, and it makes me feel free. I pick up my camera and lose all worry, sadness, and stress in my life. For me, it is medicine for my soul. Poetry allows me to express my emotions clearly and fluently. Picking up a pen and paper for me is my free road to clear air and skies. Good mental health is something that I think all teens and young adults should practice. I was not always like this though. But now, I'm determined to relax and take care of myself. Due to my love of photography, I started my own business named after my late father called OSArtsitry. I specialize in street photography and portraits. But honestly, I'm open to anything in poetry and photography that will and can make me happy. Poetry always had a spot in my heart but I was always too afraid to tell the world. But now, I'm ready. Below is a poem I wrote about my father and the feelings I feel/felt as a result of his passing. 5 months later, I’m still here. Trying to make my father proud. Trying to make something out of myself. I’ll be okay one day. I just wish you were here to see it. It’s hard without you. I find myself calling your name and still looking around. I hope one day I’m found. You were the best father I could ever ask for. Losing you hit me to the core. I’ll always be Out of body out of mind.

Graduating from college may be a goal or aspiration for some. But for my family and me, it’s a requirement. I come from generations of brilliant, talented, intelligent, and determined people. I, LayLa Nicole Sherman would like to be added to that list. I’ve always looked forward to becoming a freshman in college, it has always been a dream. I know that with my hard work, perseverance, determination, and focused mindset I can become another legacy and role model for the younger generations in my family. Although it’s been a bumpy road, I’m very blessed and lucky to say I am, I will, and I am determined to go to college and graduate. I plan to attend Tennessee State University, majoring in Accounting and minoring in Journalism. I aspire to become a CPA after graduate school, in hopes of opening my Accounting and Tax Service business. While attending TSU, I’m hoping to start interning at different financial institutions and also participating in work-study programs. I am certain with a Bachelors’s and Master’s degree in my field I will be able to take on the world within my career and take flight on to new heights. After college is all said and done, I’d like to be working as a full-time CPA. I’m very optimistic about my future and what life has to come. As I climb the ladder of my career, I’d also like to sit down and start creating my Accounting and Tax Services business in whatever city I decide to reside in. I’m hoping within 2-3 years of me starting I will have a steady business and clientele. In conclusion, by 2023 I’d like to be a young black, beautiful, brilliant young working woman in America.

One thing that gives me hope that the future will be better is me graduating from the college I'm attending. Graduating from college may be a goal or aspiration for some. But for my family and me, it’s a requirement. I come from generations of brilliant, talented, intelligent, and determined people. I, LayLa Nicole Sherman would like to be added to that list. I’ve always looked forward to becoming a freshman in college, it has always been a dream. I know that with my hard work, perseverance, determination, and focused mindset I can become another legacy and role model for the younger generations in my family. Although it’s been a bumpy road, I’m very blessed and lucky to say I am, I will, and I am determined to go to college and graduate. I plan to attend Tennessee State University, majoring in Accounting and minoring in Journalism. I aspire to become a CPA after graduate school, in hopes of opening my Accounting and Tax Service business. While attending TSU, I’m hoping to start interning at different financial institutions and also participating in work-study programs. I’m also a poet and writer myself, so minoring in Journalism would just be something fun for me to do and sharpen my skills while attending college. I am certain with a Bachelors’s and Master’s degree in my field I will be able to take on the world within my career and take flight on to new heights. I lost my father in February of 2021 and I think me going to college, performing well, and taking care of business will make him proud. I think college will and is bring the best out of me in ways I could never imagine. I'm looking forward to involving in a sophisticated young black working woman in the next 4 to 6 years. Although I'm not perfect, I know that with a little work I can get there. After college is all said and done, I’d like to be working as a full-time CPA. I’m very optimistic about my future and what life has to come. I come from a single-parent household as of February 2021, so I’d like to do what I can to make sure my mother is comfortable for the rest of her life as long as I am here. As I climb the ladder of my career, I’d also like to sit down and start creating my Accounting and Tax Services business in whatever city I decide to reside in. I’m hoping within 2-3 years of me starting I will have a steady business and clientele. In conclusion, by 2028 I’d like to be a young black, beautiful, brilliant young working woman in America.

Graduating from college may be a goal or aspiration for some. But for my family and me, it’s a requirement. I come from generations of brilliant, talented, intelligent, and determined people. I, LayLa Nicole Sherman would like to be added to that list. I’ve always looked forward to becoming a freshman in college, it has always been a dream. I know that with my hard work, perseverance, determination, and focused mindset I can become another legacy and role model for the younger generations in my family. Although it’s been a bumpy road, I’m very blessed and lucky to say I am, I will, and I am determined to go to college and graduate. I plan to attend Tennessee State University, majoring in Accounting and minoring in Journalism. I aspire to become a CPA after graduate school, in hopes of opening my Accounting and Tax Service business. While attending TSU, I’m hoping to start interning at different financial institutions and also participating in work-study programs. I’m also a poet and writer myself, so minoring in Journalism would just be something fun for me to do and sharpen my skills while attending college. I am certain with a Bachelors’s and Master’s degree in my field I will be able to take on the world within my career and take flight on to new heights. After college is all said and done, I’d like to be working as a full-time CPA. I’m very optimistic about my future and what life has to come. I come from a single-parent household as of February 2021, so I’d like to do what I can to make sure my mother is comfortable for the rest of her life as long as I am here. As I climb the ladder of my career, I’d also like to sit down and start creating my Accounting and Tax Services business in whatever city I decide to reside in. I’m hoping within 2-3 years of me starting I will have a steady business and clientele. In conclusion, by 2023 I’d like to be a young black, beautiful, brilliant young working woman in America.

February 18th, 2021, was the worst day of my life. Within a split second, reality kicked in, my life changed, and for the first time, I felt numb. I had just lost my father at 16 years old. What was I supposed to do? Death has always been a common thing I was used to, just not this close to home. For me, death is very traumatizing. I experienced my first loss while I was in elementary school. From there on out, it got worse and worse, by far, was the worst of them all. At a very young age, I understood the importance of a black man raising his child full time. In today's society, black men are labeled as the “dead beat dads” and or “absent fathers”. I appreciate my dad being present in my life, especially my childhood, as much as he could. As with any parent and child bond, there are little bumps in the road. But nothing to the point of ending all being, right? My dad had a normal relationship, bumped heads a little but we loved each other dearly. We shared a lot of fun times, we loved watching football, we loved going out to eat, we loved taking rides downtown, and we just loved being together. Whenever I needed him, he was there. It didn't matter what time of night or day. I miss him and his presence. I’ve never experienced such a deep loss, it’s something that is and was very unexplainable for me. Poetry and Photography have helped me escape the loss of my father. I was alone in my room one night recently, grappling with my thoughts. I got my start with Poetry in the 9th grade. It was an assignment for my speech class to write a 2-3 minute poem. I was scared out of my mind. After further consideration, I decided to write about heartbreak. I was the last person in my class to present, I was the only one in class with a standing ovation. That was the light bulb in my head that poetry was the way to go for me. I’ve been writing poetry ever since, and I’ve used to express my feelings whenever and wherever I go. Writing makes me feel safe, it makes me feel like I can be ME. I also see happiness through my camera lens. I started “OSArtistry” in memory of my father, to capture life through my lens. As of today, I have a website, logo, and steady business clientele. These two hobbies have helped me stay focused, remain positive, and appreciate life more. Overall, my fathers’ death has been very difficult for my family and me. But, I am very blessed that I’ve taken my pain and turned it into strength and determination. My father and I always discussed college and my future. I am determined to attend college, perform well, and walk across the stage for him. I’ve taken his death and turned it into a positive thing for my family and me. I never would have imagined being a business owner at the age of 17, I never would have imagined being a published writer at the age of 17 either. But I did it, I overcame the unthinkable for most. I promise to make my father proud while he watches.

February 18th, 2021, was the worst day of my life. Within a split second, reality kicked in, my life changed, and for the first time, I felt numb. I had just lost my father at 16 years old. What was I supposed to do? Death has always been a common thing I was used to, just not this close to home. For me, death is very traumatizing. I experienced my first loss while I was in elementary school. From there on out, it got worse and worse, by far, was the worst of them all. At a very young age, I understood the importance of a black man raising his child full time. In today's society, black men are labeled as the “dead beat dads” and or “absent fathers”. I appreciate my dad being present in my life, especially my childhood, as much as he could. As with any parent and child bond, there are little bumps in the road. But nothing to the point of ending all being, right? My dad had a normal relationship, bumped heads a little but we loved each other dearly. We shared a lot of fun times, we loved watching football, we loved going out to eat, we loved taking rides downtown, and we just loved being together. Whenever I needed him, he was there. It didn't matter what time of night or day. I miss him and his presence. I’ve never experienced such a deep loss, it’s something that is and was very unexplainable for me. Poetry and Photography have helped me escape the loss of my father. I was alone in my room one night recently, grappling with my thoughts. I got my start with Poetry in the 9th grade. It was an assignment for my speech class to write a 2-3 minute poem. I was scared out of my mind. After further consideration, I decided to write about heartbreak. I was the last person in my class to present, I was the only one in class with a standing ovation. That was the light bulb in my head that poetry was the way to go for me. I’ve been writing poetry ever since, and I’ve used to express my feelings whenever and wherever I go. Writing makes me feel safe, it makes me feel like I can be ME. I also see happiness through my camera lens. I started “OSArtistry” in memory of my father, to capture life through my lens. As of today, I have a website, logo, and steady business clientele. These two hobbies have helped me stay focused, remain positive, and appreciate life more. Overall, my fathers’ death has been very difficult for my family and me. But, I am very blessed that I’ve taken my pain and turned it into strength and determination. My father and I always discussed college and my future. I am determined to attend college, perform well, and walk across the stage for him. I’ve taken his death and turned it into a positive thing for my family and me. I never would have imagined being a business owner at the age of 17, I never would have imagined being a published writer at the age of 17 either. But I did it, I overcame the unthinkable for most. I promise to make my father proud while he watches.

Graduating from college may be a goal or aspiration for some. But for my family and me, it’s a requirement. I come from generations of brilliant, talented, intelligent, and determined people. I, LayLa Nicole Sherman would like to be added to that list. I’ve always looked forward to becoming a freshman in college, it has always been a dream. I know that with my hard work, perseverance, determination, and focused mindset I can become another legacy and role model for the younger generations in my family. I plan to attend Tennessee State University, majoring in Accounting and minoring in Journalism. I aspire to become a CPA after graduate school, in hopes of opening my Accounting and Tax Service business. While attending TSU, I’m hoping to start interning at different financial institutions and also participating in work-study programs. I am certain with a Bachelors’s and Master’s degree in my field I will be able to take on the world within my career and take flight on to new heights. After college is all said and done, I’d like to be working as a full-time CPA. I’m very optimistic about my future and what life has to come. I come from a single-parent household as of February 2021, so I’d like to do what I can to make sure my mother is comfortable for the rest of her life as long as I am here. As I climb the ladder of my career, I’d also like to sit down and start creating my Accounting and Tax Services business in whatever city I decide to reside in. I’m hoping within 2-3 years of me starting I will have a steady business and clientele. In conclusion, by 2023 I’d like to be a young black, beautiful, brilliant young working woman in America.

Graduating from college may be a goal or aspiration for some. But for my family and me, it’s a requirement. I come from generations of brilliant, talented, intelligent, and determined people. I, LayLa Nicole Sherman would like to be added to that list. I’ve always looked forward to becoming a freshman in college, it has always been a dream. I know that with my hard work, perseverance, determination, and focused mindset I can become another legacy and role model for the younger generations in my family. Although it’s been a bumpy road, I’m very blessed and lucky to say I am, I will, and I am determined to go to college and graduate. I plan to attend Tennessee State University, majoring in Accounting and minoring in Journalism. I aspire to become a CPA after graduate school, in hopes of opening my Accounting and Tax Service business. While attending TSU, I’m hoping to start interning at different financial institutions and also participating in work-study programs. I’m also a poet and writer myself, so minoring in Journalism would just be something fun for me to do and sharpen my skills while attending college. I am certain with a Bachelors’s and Master’s degree in my field I will be able to take on the world within my career and take flight on to new heights. After college is all said and done, I’d like to be working as a full-time CPA. I’m very optimistic about my future and what life has to come. I come from a single-parent household as of February 2021, so I’d like to do what I can to make sure my mother is comfortable for the rest of her life as long as I am here. As I climb the ladder of my career, I’d also like to sit down and start creating my Accounting and Tax Services business in whatever city I decide to reside in. I’m hoping within 2-3 years of me starting I will have a steady business and clientele. In conclusion, by 2023 I’d like to be a young black, beautiful, brilliant young working woman in America.

Graduating from college may be a goal or aspiration for some. But for my family and me, it’s a requirement. I come from generations of brilliant, talented, intelligent, and determined people. I, LayLa Nicole Sherman would like to be added to that list. I’ve always looked forward to becoming a freshman in college, it has always been a dream. I know that with my hard work, perseverance, determination, and focused mindset I can become another legacy and role model for the younger generations in my family. Although it’s been a bumpy road, I’m very blessed and lucky to say I am, I will, and I am determined to go to college and graduate. I plan to attend Tennessee State University, majoring in Accounting and minoring in Journalism. I aspire to become a CPA after graduate school, in hopes of opening my Accounting and Tax Service business. While attending TSU, I’m hoping to start interning at different financial institutions and also participating in work-study programs. I’m also a poet and writer myself, so minoring in Journalism would just be something fun for me to do and sharpen my skills while attending college. I am certain with a Bachelors’s and Master’s degree in my field I will be able to take on the world within my career and take flight on to new heights. After college is all said and done, I’d like to be working as a full-time CPA. I’m very optimistic about my future and what life has to come. I come from a single-parent household as of February 2021, so I’d like to do what I can to make sure my mother is comfortable for the rest of her life as long as I am here. As I climb the ladder of my career, I’d also like to sit down and start creating my Accounting and Tax Services business in whatever city I decide to reside in. I’m hoping within 2-3 years of me starting I will have a steady business and clientele. In conclusion, by 2023 I’d like to be a young black, beautiful, brilliant young working woman in America.

To give back to my community I tutor on Mondays as a service for my National Honor Society chapter at my school. Being a senior is very important to me and I feel it is pivotal that younger classmen feel comfortable in high school and get the help they need. Unlike me, I didn't receive the same help and guidance that they can do, and will so I feel I must provide that for them. I tutor in all subjects and areas from 3:20-5:30. I have no problem giving up two hours of my time to prepare the future leaders of our world for greatness. Just because I didn't have guidance as a younger classman and I was lost, doesn't mean I have to sit around and watch them go through the same. Get out there and make a difference in your community. It's worth it. Graduating from college may be a goal or aspiration for some. But for my family and me, it’s a requirement. I come from generations of brilliant, talented, intelligent, and determined people. I, LayLa Nicole Sherman would like to be added to that list. I’ve always looked forward to becoming a freshman in college, it has always been a dream. I know that with my hard work, perseverance, determination, and focused mindset I can become another legacy and role model for the younger generations in my family. Although it’s been a bumpy road, I’m very blessed and lucky to say I am, I will, and I am determined to go to college and graduate. I plan to attend Tennessee State University, majoring in Accounting and minoring in Journalism. I aspire to become a CPA after graduate school, in hopes of opening my Accounting and Tax Service business. While attending TSU, I’m hoping to start interning at different financial institutions and also participating in work-study programs. I’m also a poet and writer myself, so minoring in Journalism would just be something fun for me to do and sharpen my skills while attending college. I am certain with a Bachelors’s and Master’s degree in my field I will be able to take on the world within my career and take flight on to new heights. After college is all said and done, I’d like to be working as a full-time CPA. I’m very optimistic about my future and what life has to come. I come from a single-parent household as of February 2021, so I’d like to do what I can to make sure my mother is comfortable for the rest of her life as long as I am here. As I climb the ladder of my career, I’d also like to sit down and start creating my Accounting and Tax Services business in whatever city I decide to reside in. I’m hoping within 2-3 years of me starting I will have a steady business and clientele. In conclusion, by 2023 I’d like to be a young black, beautiful, brilliant young working woman in America.

Who wants to live this world knowing they didn't give back to their community, that helped sculpt them into the person that they became. Giving back isn't something you should do just to say you did it, it's because you SHOULD do it. I always want to give credit where it's due and do what I can to show my appreciation. I would be nothing without my neighborhood, my city, and those who helped turn me into the young brilliant woman I am today. Giving back is important because it's a perfect way to show how thankful and appreciative you are for all of the things you've gotten or for the person you've become. If you are at a place in life where you have it and you are financially and physically able why not do something for those in need or those who have helped you get to where you are today. To give back to my community I tutor on Mondays as a service for my National Honor Society chapter at my school. Being a senior is very important to me and I feel it is pivotal that younger classmen feel comfortable in high school and get the help they need. Unlike me, I didn't receive the same help and guidance that they can do, and will so I feel I must provide that for them. I tutor in all subjects and areas from 3:20-5:30. I have no problem giving up two hours of my time to prepare the future leaders of our world for greatness. Just because I didn't have guidance as a younger classman and I was lost, doesn't mean I have to sit around and watch them go through the same. Get out there and make a difference in your community. It's worth it.

Who wants to live this world knowing they didn't give back to their community, that helped sculpt them into the person that they became. Giving back isn't something you should do just to say you did it, it's because you SHOULD do it. I always want to give credit where it's due and do what I can to show my appreciation. I would be nothing without my neighborhood, my city, and those who helped turn me into the young brilliant woman I am today. Giving back is important because it's a perfect way to show how thankful and appreciative you are for all of the things you've gotten or for the person you've become. If you are at a place in life where you have it and you are financially and physically able why not do something for those in need or those who have helped you get to where you are today. To give back to my community I tutor on Mondays as a service for my National Honor Society chapter at my school. Being a senior is very important to me and I feel it is pivotal that younger classmen feel comfortable in high school and get the help they need. Unlike me, I didn't receive the same help and guidance that they can do, and will so I feel I must provide that for them. I tutor in all subjects and areas from 3:20-5:30. I have no problem giving up two hours of my time to prepare the future leaders of our world for greatness. Just because I didn't have guidance as a younger classman and I was lost, doesn't mean I have to sit around and watch them go through the same. Get out there and make a difference in your community. It's worth it.

Who wants to live this world knowing they didn't give back to their community, that helped sculpt them into the person that they became. Giving back isn't something you should do just to say you did it, it's because you SHOULD do it. I always want to give credit where it's due and do what I can to show my appreciation. I would be nothing without my neighborhood, my city, and those who helped turn me into the young brilliant woman I am today. Giving back is important because it's a perfect way to show how thankful and appreciative you are for all of the things you've gotten or for the person you've become. If you are at a place in life where you have it and you are financially and physically able why not do something for those in need or those who have helped you get to where you are today. To give back to my community I tutor on Mondays as a service for my National Honor Society chapter at my school. Being a senior is very important to me and I feel it is pivotal that younger classmen feel comfortable in high school and get the help they need. Unlike me, I didn't receive the same help and guidance that they can do, and will so I feel I must provide that for them. I tutor in all subjects and areas from 3:20-5:30. I have no problem giving up two hours of my time to prepare the future leaders of our world for greatness. Just because I didn't have guidance as a younger classman and I was lost, doesn't mean I have to sit around and watch them go through the same. Get out there and make a difference in your community. It's worth it.

Hello, My name is LayLa Sherman. I am 17 years old living in Detroit. I attend Cass Tech High School, and I have a 3.5 GPA. I’ve endured a lot of hardships in my life, the most recent one being the loss of my father. I think I deserve this scholarship because of my determination and perseverance. This past February, I lost my father unexpectedly. I was 16 years old and had no idea what to do with my life. I gave up on school, my social life, and everything under the sun which is a feeling I’ve never felt. My junior year was already super difficult due to the fact I was virtual and was having a hard time keeping up with all the work and assignments, but once it took a turn for the worst I gave up. School has always been my number one priority, I’ve never taken my grades or school lightly. Putting my best foot forward in school means a lot to me because I know for a fact graduating and going to college is my ticket to greatness and success. Not only do I want to make myself proud, but I also have a family behind me who backs me and cares about me unconditionally and I want to make them proud. February of 2021 was the worst month of my life and it continued on from there until now, but I never gave up on myself. I remained a high GPA of 3.5 for the remainder of my junior year and I also was accepted into the National Honor Society. The loss of my father was definitely difficult but it put a fire under me to work harder, keep the faith, and make my father proud. I hope you all see that I am a really determined student just trying to make it out. College was always a dream of mine and I want to continue down that path for my father. It’s really important that I keep his legacy going and I also keep the faith. My mother is all I have left and I know that she is counting on me to make her proud and stay focused in school. Even though I am struggling I’m still determined to make something out of myself, graduate from high school, go to college, graduate college, and start my life as a young adult which is something I know my father would’ve wanted.

Graduating from college may be a goal or aspiration for some. But for my family and me, it’s a requirement. I come from generations of brilliant, talented, intelligent, and determined people. I, LayLa Nicole Sherman would like to be added to that list. I’ve always looked forward to becoming a freshman in college, it has always been a dream. I know that with my hard work, perseverance, determination, and focused mindset I can become another legacy and role model for the younger generations in my family. Although it’s been a bumpy road, I’m very blessed and lucky to say I am, I will, and I am determined to go to college and graduate. I plan to attend Tennessee State University, majoring in Accounting and minoring in Journalism. I aspire to become a CPA after graduate school, in hopes of opening my Accounting and Tax Service business. While attending TSU, I’m hoping to start interning at different financial institutions and also participating in work-study programs. I’m also a poet and writer myself, I am certain with a Bachelors’s and Master’s degree in my field I will be able to take on the world within my career and take flight on to new heights. After college is all said and done, I’d like to be working as a full-time CPA. I’m very optimistic about my future and what life has to come. As I climb the ladder of my career, I’d also like to sit down and start creating my Accounting and Tax Services business in whatever city I decide to reside in. I’m hoping within 2-3 years of me starting I will have a steady business and clientele. In conclusion, by 2023 I’d like to be a young black, beautiful, brilliant young working woman in America.

Happiness and Joy. Something that a lot of people lose when dealing with heart-wrenching situations and times. As for myself, I had to pull it out of the dirt. I lost my father in February of 2021, it was the worst time of my life. I genuinely thought that my whole life had just crumbled in front of me, not knowing that the worse was to come. I didn't realize how much death can affect people, but mainly children and teens. Although this situation was hard it ultimately taught me how to remain optimistic even when things are going south. Every day was a struggle for my mother and me, but I never gave up on myself on her. I promised myself that in honor of my father I would keep trying my best, applying myself, and giving the best version of myself that I could. It's easier said than done to get up every day and give energy but I did it anyway. I know that's what my dad would want and expect from me nonetheless that's just who I am. I was not willing to let myself crumble under pressure, no matter what or how long it took. Here I am today, one year later. Still standing, still pushing, and still evolving into a beautiful young woman. Staying optimistic through my fathers' death taught me the strength I had within me. I never thought or knew I could experience a loss like that and still be able to come out of the top. I'm grateful for all the breakdowns I had because the breakdowns helped me level up, open my eyes, and realize that I am a beast. I can get through anything. I am L A Y L A N I C O L E.

I’ve endured a lot of hardships in my life, the most recent one being the loss of my father. I think I deserve this scholarship because of my determination and perseverance. This past February, I lost my father unexpectedly. I was 16 years old and had no idea what to do with my life. I gave up on school, my social life, and everything under the sun which is a feeling I’ve never felt. School has always been my number one priority, I’ve never taken my grades or school lightly. Putting my best foot forward in school means a lot to me because I know for a fact graduating and going to college is my ticket to greatness and success. Not only do I want to make myself proud, I have a family behind me who backs me and cares about me unconditionally and I want to make them proud. I remained a high GPA of 3.5 for the remainder of my junior year and I also was accepted into the National Honor Society. The loss of my father was definitely difficult but it put a fire under me to work harder, keep the faith, and make my father proud. I hope you all see that I am a really determined student just trying to make it out. College was always a dream of mine and I want to continue down that path for my father. It’s really important that I keep his legacy going and I also keep the faith. Even though I am struggling I’m still determined to make something out of myself, graduate from high school, go to college, graduate college, and start my life as a young adult which is something I know my father would’ve wanted.

Hello, My name is LayLa Sherman. I am 17 years old living in Detroit. I attend Cass Tech High School, and I have a 3.5 GPA. I’ve endured a lot of hardships in my life, the most recent one being the loss of my father. I think I deserve this scholarship because of my determination and perseverance. This past February, I lost my father unexpectedly. I was 16 years old and had no idea what to do with my life. I gave up on school, my social life, and everything under the sun which is a feeling I’ve never felt. My junior year was already super difficult due to the fact I was virtual and was having a hard time keeping up with all the work and assignments, but once it took a turn for the worst I gave up. School has always been my number one priority, I’ve never taken my grades or school lightly. Putting my best foot forward in school means a lot to me because I know for a fact graduating and going to college is my ticket to greatness and success. Not only do I want to make myself proud, I have a family behind me who backs me and cares about me unconditionally and I want to make them proud. February of 2021 was the worst month of my life and it continued on from there until now, but I never gave up on myself. I remained a high GPA of a 3.5 for the remainder of my junior year and I also was accepted into the National Honor Society. The loss of my father was definitely difficult but it put a fire under me to work harder, keep the faith, and make my father proud. I hope you all see that I am a really determined student just trying to make it out. College was always a dream of mine and I want to continue down that path for my father. It’s really important that I keep his legacy going and I also keep the faith. My mother is all I have left and I know that she is counting on me to make her proud and stay focused in school. Even though I am struggling I’m still determined to make something out of myself, graduate from high school, go to college, graduate college, and start my life as a young adult which is something I know my father would’ve wanted.

Hello, My name is LayLa Sherman. I am 17 years old living in Detroit. I attend Cass Tech High School, and I have a 3.5 GPA. I’ve endured a lot of hardships in my life, the most recent one being the loss of my father. I think I deserve this scholarship because of my determination and perseverance. This past February, I lost my father unexpectedly. I was 16 years old and had no idea what to do with my life. I gave up on school, my social life, and everything under the sun which is a feeling I’ve never felt. My junior year was already super difficult due to the fact I was virtual and was having a hard time keeping up with all the work and assignments, but once it took a turn for the worst I gave up. School has always been my number one priority, I’ve never taken my grades or school lightly. Putting my best foot forward in school means a lot to me because I know for a fact graduating and going to college is my ticket to greatness and success. Not only do I want to make myself proud, but I also have a family behind me who backs me and cares about me unconditionally and I want to make them proud. February of 2021 was the worst month of my life and it continued on from there until now, but I never gave up on myself. I remained a high GPA of 3.5 for the remainder of my junior year and I also was accepted into the National Honor Society. The loss of my father was definitely difficult but it put a fire under me to work harder, keep the faith, and make my father proud. I hope you all see that I am a really determined student just trying to make it out. College was always a dream of mine and I want to continue down that path for my father. It’s really important that I keep his legacy going and I also keep the faith. My mother is all I have left and I know that she is counting on me to make her proud and stay focused in school. Even though I am struggling I’m still determined to make something out of myself, graduate from high school, go to college, graduate college, and start my life as a young adult which is something I know my father would’ve wanted.

February 18th, 2021, was the worst day of my life. Within a split second, reality kicked in, my life changed, and for the first time, I felt numb. I had just lost my father at 16 years old. What was I supposed to do? I understood the importance of a black man raising his child full time. In today's society, black men are labeled as the “dead beat dads” and or “absent fathers”. I appreciate my dad being present in my life, especially my childhood, as much as he could. As with any parent and child bond, there are little bumps in the road. But nothing to the point of ending all being, right? We shared a lot of fun times, we loved watching football, we loved going out to eat, we loved taking rides downtown, and just being together. Whenever I needed him, he was there. It didn't matter what time of night or day. I miss him and his presence. I’ve never experienced such a deep loss, it’s something that is and was very unexplainable for me. Overall, my fathers’ death has been very difficult for my family and me. But, I am very blessed that I’ve taken my pain and turned it into strength and determination. My father and I always discussed college and my future. I am determined to attend college, perform well, and walk across the stage for him. I’ve taken his death and turned it into a positive thing for my family and me. I never would have imagined being a business owner at the age of 17, I never would have imagined being a published writer at the age of 17 either. But I did it, I overcame the unthinkable for most. I promise to make my father proud while he watches.

Something I love about myself is how determined I am. I wasn't always like this, it took me a long time to build up my determination status. As a child, I remember never wanting to push myself, never wanting to put that extra foot in the door, and never be determined. I never really cared about the outcome of things, and I was also too scared and shy to give it my all. Middle school was that wake-up call for me, and I am very grateful for that. I was in math class stuck on a very hard problem and I was like "you know what I give up!". But, I sat there for a minute and realized that I would get no with giving up. I needed to be determined enough to push myself through that problem and figure it out, and in due time I did. That's where my journey to master determination started. The biggest life lesson I've learned so far is to never walk away when life gets hard. You have to try, you have to want it, and you have to push for it. Nothing in life comes easy, but with a determined mindset, a good head on your shoulders, and a focused mentality you can go anywhere. Me being determined has helped me in high school. It has made me more hungry for better grades, scholarships, college acceptances, and any opportunities that will help further my education, life, and one day career.

One practical solution for helping more people who struggle with mental health is to create a space so that they have a safe space to go to vent, share their feelings, and be around people who are struggling so that they won't feel all alone. I think a lot of people who struggle with their mental health feel as if they are alone and that they have nowhere to go or no one to turn to. I think as a society, we need to make them feel comfortable, safe, and understood. Giving people who feel alone a place to run to in the long run, helps them more than we know. During my 9th grade year of high school, I was going through the motions and I wish I had somewhere to go. People unknowingly make comments that make us go through the motions uncomfortable or shameful about what we are feeling. When in actuality we can all come together, create programs, and youth groups to help us get out of that and effectively and comfortable express how we feel. All people need at the time is a helping hand, nothing more nothing less. As a country, we all need to do better by showing love to those in need. There aren't enough groups, safe havens, or places to go for people who need help. You could save a person's life by simply letting them vent to you, cry to you, and just having a shoulder to lean out. As humans, we focus too much on the things that we see in front of us instead of the things that we have no idea are killing, hurting, and greatly affecting our future leaders of tomorrow.

The most helpful piece of financial advice I ever received was to never spend more than you earn. A lot of students my age and under enjoy spending and shopping, which is great. But, we have to learn how to do that in moderation. I understand how much college is going to cost me and I want to make sure I have enough funds to attend any college I want. It's nothing better than having all financial burdens off your shoulders and taken care for you. It's always nice to treat yourself, but you have to treat yourself effectively! I have my bank account and to this day I try to keep at least $100 in my account at all times. Emergencies may happen, and you always need to have backup money just in case. I also believe in making separate stashes for specific endeavors such as; bills, hair, nails, and any other miscellaneous purchases. You never know when things may happen so you want to stay prepared at all times. College is very expensive, for the right reasons of course. But if you plan accordingly, save for the right things, and stay focused you'll be able to pay or help pay your way through college. Preparing early in your financial career is very important for any future events. Financial advice is something that you should pay attention to because, in the long run, it can help you make smart financial decisions. I hope I am considered for this scholarship so I can further my education. Thank You, LayLa Sherman.

One experience that has shaped a part of who I am today is the loss of my father this past February. I lost my father, Orlando Sherman on February 18th, 2021. I was 16 years old, trying to focus on my junior year of high school; I was in disbelief, I was in shock, and I didn't know what to do or how to feel. I've never felt a pain that sharp in my life it took everything out of me not to scream, cuss, and holler. It was the start of my life going into a downwards spiral even though in that vary moment I thought I was going to die myself, I knew that this was happening for a reason. As of today, October 18th, 2021, marks 8 months of being without my father. These 8 months have done severe damage to me but I've learned a lot. In these last 8 months, I have made tremendous progress. I finished my junior year with a 3.5 GPA, I started my photography business OSArtistry, I became a two-time published author/journalist, and I made it to my senior year of high school at one of the hardest schools in the city of Detroit, Cass Technical High School. I was broken and sad, but I decided to take all my pain and anger and turn it into something more positive. I have never been stronger than I am now, I have never been more resilient than I am now, I have never felt more powerful than I do now because I took my pain and put it toward something better. Everything I'm doing is for my father and I hope to continue to make him proud and walk across that stage for him.

I stay true to myself by following the beat of my drum. I am a firm believer in being a leader and not a follower. I live in Detroit with my mother, and being 17 in an urban community comes with a lot of peer pressure, anxiety, and hard tasks to handle. I've never believed following or listening to other people would get me ahead in life, doing what's best for me and following my morals/heart would. It can be difficult to not follow what everyone is doing or move with the status quo, but in the end, it is all worth it. Although teenagers feel like they have to be a product of their environment, you don't. You can go out in the world and prove everyone wrong. It is very common in modern times that drinking weed, smoking, and having sex are the new cool. I choose to not engage in things that make me feel uncomfortable. A lot of my friends choose to smoke weed but that isn't something I feel comfortable doing so I politely say "hey no thanks", and proceed. I've had to learn that just because people around me choose to engage in those activities doesn't mean I have to. Sticking my ground and being vocal has helped me stay true to myself the most because people forget when you just say "no". I'm very comfortable in my skin, I'm very comfortable with the morals I stand/live by, and I am also very comfortable being ME and staying TRUE to myself. Confidence within yourself is key.

Hello, My name is LayLa Sherman. I am 17 years old living in Detroit. I attend Cass Tech High School, and I have a 3.5 GPA. I’ve endured a lot of hardships in my life, the most recent one being the loss of my father. I think I deserve this scholarship because of my determination and perseverance. This past February, I lost my father unexpectedly. I was 16 years old and had no idea what to do with my life. I gave up on school, my social life, and everything under the sun which is a feeling I’ve never felt. My junior year was already super difficult due to the fact I was virtual and was having a hard time keeping up with all the work and assignments, but once it took a turn for the worst I gave up. School has always been my number one priority, I’ve never taken my grades or school lightly. Putting my best foot forward in school means a lot to me because I know for a fact graduating and going to college is my ticket to greatness and success. Not only do I want to make myself proud, I have a family behind me who backs me and cares about me unconditionally and I want to make them proud. February of 2021 was the worst month of my life and it continued on from there until now, but I never gave up on myself. I remained a high gpa of a 3.5 for the remainder of my junior year and I also was accepted into the National Honor Society. The loss of my father was definitely difficult but it put a fire under me to work harder, keep the faith, and make my father proud. I hope you all see that I am a really determined student just trying to make it out. College was always a dream of mine and I want to continue down that path for my father. It’s really important that I keep his legacy going and I also keep the faith. My mother is all I have left and I know that she is counting on me to make her proud and stay focused in school. Even though I am struggling I’m still determined to make something out of myself, graduate from high school, go to college, graduate college, and start my life as an young adult which is something I know my father would’ve wanted.

How do I keep a growth mindset? I keep a growth mindset by keeping my eye on the prize. Keeping my head on my goals in life is key to always having a growth mindset. You cannot evolve in life without a goal or goals set. I keep reminders in my phone to keep going, keep pushing, and never take my foot off the gas. Being structured and organized also helps me because I have goals set everyday to have all assignments completed and turned in on time. The National Honor Society is big on mindset and thinking and me having the honor to be such a wonderful programs always stays in the back of my head. I talk to myself a lot, I try to always speak positive and highly to and of myself to reassure me that I CAN do it, I WILL succeed, I WILL graduate with honors. Sometimes, YOU have to be YOUR number one supporter/cheerleader. No one will push you like yourself! You know YOU. I never push off my responsibilities on other people and I also try to led by example and give the best version of me all day everyday. I hope you all see that I am a determined young lady who is destined for college.